London, United Kingdom. Deputy Shipping Minister Marina Hadjimanolis reaffirmed Cyprus’ commitment to international maritime cooperation during a reception at the headquarters of the International Maritime Organisation in London. The event took place on the sidelines of the 137th IMO Council as Cyprus seeks to strengthen its position in global shipping diplomacy.
Reception at IMO headquarters
The reception was organised by the Shipping Deputy Ministry and attended by IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez and representatives of IMO member states.
Addressing guests, Hadjimanolis said such gatherings allowed countries to move beyond the formal setting of negotiations and meetings while strengthening “the spirit of cooperation and friendship that lies at the heart of the IMO”.
Cyprus maritime position
Hadjimanolis said Cyprus, with its long maritime tradition and strong commitment to international shipping, remains “a maritime nation” with one of the largest fleets in the world under its flag and a well-established maritime centre offering high-quality services across the sector.
“Our success is closely linked to the work and values of the IMO,” she said, adding that Cyprus remains fully committed to supporting the organisation’s objectives and contributing constructively to its work, in cooperation with all member states.
Sector pressures and policy priorities
The London session is taking place as international shipping faces pressure from geopolitical instability, decarbonisation targets, safety concerns and the need to protect vital sea lanes.
Shipping remains one of Cyprus’ most important industries, with Hadjimanolis previously saying that the sector entered 2026 in stronger shape despite disruptions facing global trade.
The island has also been working to keep maritime policy high on its agenda ahead of its EU Council Presidency, while using its presence at the IMO to strengthen bilateral and multilateral ties. Earlier this year, Cyprus and the UK also pledged to deepen maritime cooperation following talks in London linked to Cyprus’ role at the IMO.
Broader diplomatic efforts
Hadjimanolis’ latest visit formed part of a broader effort to keep Cyprus visible in international shipping decision-making at a time when regional crises continue to test the industry.
In March, the minister said Cyprus was closely monitoring the situation in the Gulf, where Cyprus-flagged ships were reported to be safe, while also stressing the wider risks facing seafarers and shipping routes.
On the sidelines of the Council session, Hadjimanolis also held a bilateral meeting with Saudi Arabia’s Transport General Authority president, H.E. Eng. Fawaz Al-Sahli.
